MORGAN PARK — The Chicago Police Department has issued a community alert after a rash of catalytic converter thefts in Beverly and Morgan Park.
The alert states that on Wednesday police in the Morgan Park district fielded numerous reports of catalytic converters being taken from the 9900-11700 south blocks between Campbell and Washtenaw Avenues.
The thefts occurred between midnight and 5:30 a.m., and most of the targeted vehicles appear to be small to mid-size SUVs, police said.
Victims and witnesses reported observing two African-American males dressed in hooded sweatshirts committing the crimes. The offenders were driving in a black Mercedes sedan with Illinois Dealer plates, according to police.
Catalytic converters help to make pollutants in a vehicle's exhaust less toxic. The device relies on precious metals including platinum, palladium and rhodium. Thus, converters are often a target for thieves.
After removing the catalytic converters from cars and trucks, the devices are usually taken to junk yards. The stolen parts can be worth up to several hundred dollars, police said.
Residents who notice any questionable activity are encouraged to call 911 and provide a detailed description of any suspicious people, including any vehicle and license plate information.
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